Blepharoplasty

Sagging of the tissues around the eyes can result in a tired, or sad appearance. Dark circles and fine lines around the lower eyelids can further accentuate this appearance. Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure to rejuvenate the eyes, allowing the world to see the lively, youthful person hiding on the inside!

A careful diagnosis is an important key to successful eyelid surgery. Excess and sun-damaged skin, bulging fat, loss of volume and sagging ligaments around the eyes can all play a key role in the aging process of the eyelids. Following a thorough discussion of your medical history and cosmetic concerns, Dr. Pero will perform a careful examination to diagnose the underlying anatomic cause of your complaints. He will explain all of your options, both surgical and nonsurgical.

Pre-Operative Considerations:
Dry eye symptoms may require a consultation with an Ophthalmologist or Medical Optometrist to assess the likelihood of worsening of these symptoms after surgery. Any anti-coagulation medication (blood thinners), including most over-the -counter pain relievers, will need to be discontinued a minimum of two weeks prior to surgery in order to avoid complication during or following surgery. Minor aches and pains can be treated safely with only Tylenol (acetaminophen) prior to surgery. Use of any nicotine product, including cigarettes, cigars, oral tobacco, nicotine patches or gum etc., is to be discontinued for a minimum of two weeks prior to surgery to avoid complications. Use of Arnica, a naturally occurring herb, is believed by many to minimize postoperative bruising. Taking a multivitamin with supplemental Vitamin C will also help the healing process. These should be started at least two weeks before surgery.

Some herbs, including garlic, ginger, ginkgo, ginseng, Echinacea, Ephedra, St. John’s Wort, Kava and Valerian may all increase the risk of complications during or after surgery. For this reason, please stop all herbal medication two weeks prior to surgery. Vitamin E can actually suppress wound healing (contrary to public opinion) and these supplements should also be stopped before surgery.

Use of Arnica, a naturally occurring herb, is believed by many to minimize postoperative bruising. Taking a multivitamin with supplemental Vitamin C will also help the healing process. These should be begun at least two weeks before surgery.

The Procedure Itself:
Depending upon the procedure decided upon, it may be performed with either local anesthesia and sedation or a general anesthetic, depending upon the patient and surgeon’s preference. The incision(s) may be placed inside the lower eyelid or in a naturally occurring skin crease in the upper or lower eyelid. This aids to camouflage the scar postoperatively. The surgery takes around 1-2 hours to complete. Following surgery, you will be taken to the recovery area and discharged home once certain criteria are met.

After Surgery/Recovery:
You will be seen in the office 5-7 days after surgery at which time your incisions will be cleaned, and sutures removed (if applicable). Pain is usually well-tolerated and controlled with extra-strength Tylenol by the first or second day after surgery. A mild amount of bruising is possible and should be completely resolved by 10-14 days. Makeup can be worn at two weeks. The incisions under the eyelids typically heal extremely well and are usually difficult to notice within a few weeks after the procedure. Silicone sheeting may be given to you to begin wearing at 2-4 weeks after surgery. Avoidance of sun exposure will minimize scarring and wearing a hat, in addition to application of sunscreen, is recommended if sun exposure is possible.